To properly describe this I feel like I need a PowerPoint presentation, but I'll save Microsoft for my 9-5. I want to point out that I am abundantly lucky and grateful to have access to this team of medical practitioners and the fact I live in Toronto, putting me in close proximity to everyone for the most part. In addition, I was able to navigate the system during a pandemic. They say it takes a village...
OBGYN & Surgeon - it has taken me 10+ years to find the right fit. I was lucky enough to be referred to my doctor at Toronto's top hospital for gynaecology and obstetrics. My doctor is smart, innovative, has excellent bedside manner, and is empathetic. I feel that she treats me with the same respect and guidance as if I was a loved one. The moment surgeries opened up due to the pandemic protocols changing, my doctor got me in ASAP. I am so so so lucky.
Family Doctor - I have been seeing the same family doctor since I was in my early teens. He has since moved just outside of the GTA, but I refuse to stop seeing him anytime soon. With my complicated health history I would not have the confidence to see someone new, especially while my health still feels precarious to me.
Hematologist - My OBGYN referred me to a hematologist to rule out any bleeding disorders. I have been doing lots of bloodwork, receiving iron transfusions, and taking an oral supplement of iron to get my iron levels up. I had my latest appointment this morning and have a follow up tomorrow to see if Von Willebrand Disease is a factor (when your blood does not clot properly).
Fertility Doctor - Nick and I have followed this doctor from a major hospital downtown to her new clinic which is on the other side of the City. She has a history with my OBGYN and they have worked closely together. Nick and I have been having regular updates on my health progress, and we are extremely hopeful for what the future brings.
Cardiologist - I was experiencing heart palpitations this past summer that was causing me to not sleep at night. I was referred to a wonderful clinic up in the Junction where I did an echocardiogram, ultrasound, stress test, and wore a holter monitor for a few days. Thankfully everything came back normal from a physical standpoint, however my palpitations were clearly connected to anxiety attacks which were worsening. I am glad to say that I am seeing a therapist regularly and taking medication to help with my symptoms. Lifestyle changes have made a big difference for me.
Therapist - My close friend Emily had been seeing a new therapist who she was experiencing good results with. I noticed a very positive change in her myself, and knew that I needed the help to get through this latest health crisis that my uterus had thrown at me. I started seeing this therapist in December and it has been a complete game changer. I don't know how I would have gotten through this past 7+ months without him. He has also helped me work through some other issues that I have buried for some time. I am so grateful to my friend for the recommendation to this doctor.
Naturopath - I found my naturopath in my community, the clinic is actually just around the corner from my house. The clinic specializes in female wellness and uses holistic approaches. Now that I have completed my surgery I am looking forward to seeing the difference from making certain lifestyle changes that will hopefully make my quality of life better.
My tips on managing your own healthcare journey:
Keep medical records organized and ensure you are sharing them with your medical team that need access for review and to save to your file.
Put reminders into calendar to follow up on results, next steps.
Prioritize health appointments. Put appointments into your personal and work calendars if needed with sufficient travel time to and from. I also feel that it helps to give your people manager a heads up in case you are unreachable for a window of time.
Speak up. If you do not understand something, ask. If you aren't sure what other options there are, ask. You are in the captain's seat, captain.
Be respectful. The medical field has been stretched and put under unbelievable pressure during the pandemic especially. Your doctors, nurses, and supporting administrative teams are doing their best during a difficult time when health protocols seem to be ever-changing.
The importance of staying on top of your health is so important. If you are not well, you cannot take care of anyone else! If I have learned anything from the past year, my health is my #1 priority.
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